Municipal election nomination results released

The Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs today released nomination information regarding the 2005 municipal elections slated to be held on September 27 throughout the province.

Of the 276 municipalities in Newfoundland and Labrador required to hold elections, a total of 140 will hold elections, and 42 municipalities have a full complement of council which will be proclaimed by acclamation. An additional 63 municipalities have nominated an adequate number of candidates to constitute a quorum and are therefore in a position to fill the remaining vacancies through a by-election. Finally, an additional 31 municipalities had an insufficient number of nominees to constitute a quorum and will therefore not hold elections on September 27, but will hold special by-elections under the direction of the minister on October 25. Candidates totaling 2,125 have put their names forward which include 1,108 incumbents and 1,017 new candidates.

�Municipal elections are an important part of the democratic process, and in establishing effective self-sustaining municipal representation with a mandate to improve communities in Newfoundland and Labrador. Concerns were expressed about possible lack of candidate interest, however the numbers indicate an improved response from previous elections,� stated Minister Jack Byrne �The candidates are to be applauded for their interest in participating in municipal government; the work is sometimes difficult, but can be rewarding and contribute to positive change. The contributions made by municipal councils are essential to secure community development throughout the province.�

Generally, numbers have risen since the previous municipal election held in September 2001. In 2001, 123 municipalities held either full or partial municipal elections, with an additional 61 full councils proclaimed by acclamation.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities in partnership with the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs launched a Municipal Awareness Campaign in August to encourage people to get involved with their municipal council, and encourage people to vote. The success of this campaign has introduced new faces and increased numbers which will lead to a more effective democratic election process. The federation president Herbert Brett says he is delighted people responded to the campaign.

�Giving residents a choice on election day is fundamental to making your municipality sustainable,� said Mr. Brett �While too many councils are still filled without an election, it is gratifying that more elections will be held this year than in 2001. The federation is looking forward to working with the provincial government and our members to ensure we have strong, viable municipal governments. I congratulate all candidates for showing real commitment to their communities and for stepping up to the challenges that lay ahead. I assure them that the federation is here to work with all successful candidates to improve their residents' quality of life.�

The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities was formed in 1951 as an umbrella organization mandated to represent municipal government interests, and as a vehicle for municipal leaders to share information and resources. NLFM represents the 283 cities and towns in Newfoundland and Labrador that service 85 per cent of the population, as well as their 2,000 plus leaders.

Media contact:

Heather MacLean, Communications (709) 729-1983, 690-2498, heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca

Craig Pollett, Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities, (709) 682-6536

2005 09 15                             3:50 p.m.